MR Neurography - Imaging Peripheral Nerves

MR imaging of peripheral nerves not only allows sensitive detection of peripheral nerve abnormalities but also displays high detail of regional anatomy and improves specificity of diagnosis. The use of MR imaging for diagnosis and evaluation of peripheral nervous system disorders was initially reported in the late 1980’s. Since then, expertise gained through experience over the last decade coupled with improvements in MR imaging technology now make routine evaluation of major peripheral nerves possible including nerves within the brachial and lumbosacral plexuses as well as major peripheral nerves in the upper and lower extremities. MR nerve imaging, also referred to as MR neurography (MRN), allows separation between normal and abnormal peripheral nerves. More importantly, MRN often enables more sensitive and specific diagnoses to be made that help to separate operable from inoperable lesions. MRN also helps to better localize the principal site of nerve involvement and to better define the extent of involvement that is essential for preoperative planning in those lesions that may be amenable to surgical treatment.